In this action-packed history, award-winning author Harlow Giles Unger unfolds the epic story of Patrick Henry, who roused Americans to fight government tyranny -- both British and American. Remembered largely for his cry for "liberty or death," Henry was actually the first (and most colorful) of America's Founding Fathers -- first to call Americans to arms against Britain, first to demand a bill of rights, and first to fight the growth of big government after the Revolution. As quick with a rifle as he was with his tongue, Henry was America's greatest orator and courtroom lawyer, who mixed histrionics and hilarity to provoke tears or laughter from judges and jurors alike. Henry's passion for liberty (as well as his very large family), suggested to many Americans that he, not Washington, was the real father of his country. This biography is history at its best, telling a story both human and philosophical. As Unger points out, Henry's words continue to echo across America and inspire millions to fight government intrusion in their daily lives. A well-written story of one of the key figures in America's Revolutionary movement and his later efforts in safeguarding the hard-won freedoms during the formation of the new nation
The author is a good storyteller, and his brisk, narrative style ably conveys the importance of the life and contributions of this great Lion of Liberty'
An informative and enjoyable read.” Reference & Research Book News , February 2011 A popular biography of the public and private life of Patrick Henry
A compelling story that illustrates Henry's beliefs by centering on his actions and the events of his life.” Washington Times , 2/16/11 A highly readable account of the life of one of our most prominent revolutionaries.” The Waterline , 2/24/11 Unger brings Colonial Williamsburg to life.” Magill Book Reviews An engaging account of Patrick Henry's lifelong quest to promote individual liberties and fight against government interference.” American Spectator , April 2011 The first major new biography of Patrick Henry in a generation.” Kingman Daily Miner, 12/3/10 Exactingly researched
Unger has captured the essence of Henry
Highly recommended
[A] personable historical account of one outstanding patriot.” The Lone Star, November 2010 This excellent book should be read by all Americans.” Our History Project Book Review , 1/10/11 In this magnificent book Harlow Unger paints a portrait of Patrick Henry that will inspire, recharge and get us excited; if not passionate; about what freedom is and why we as Americans strive, desire and covet that ideal
[He] combines true story telling mixed with sound academic research.” WhatWouldtheFoundersThink.com, 1/10/11 One of the most interesting facets of this book was how the author tied the various actors in the Revolution together and placed them at various events.” Charleston Post and Courier , 2/6/11 This biography adds to our further knowledge of the men who were our Founding Fathers.” Hudson Valley News , 11/3/10 Very readable, engaging.” New York Journal of Books , 10/26/10 Harlow Giles Unger does a remarkable job of putting together the life and times of this most noted but little known Founder. Unger provides a startling history of the man who, though never in combat, remains one of the great patriots of his new country
Unger is not only a superior storyteller, he is also a gifted researcher; he sweeps the reader into the story, also enveloping us in the times
The book brings fresh insights to the process of building a nation with little direction from which to work
If you want to know what the Founders meant while deliberating the creation of the Confederation and the Constitution, and if you wish to understand why they made the decisions they did, read Lion of Liberty .” Associated Press, 11/15/10 Unger recounts Henry's life and explores its ramifications in contemporary America. Whether you find it cautionary or inspiring might depend on your own political beliefs
[Unger] brings an ardent spirit of libertarianism to this engrossing and articulate biography; he argues implicitly that in Henry's aversion to a strong central government, the tea-party movement finds its philosophical cornerstone
Unger's telling of Henry's story is a beacon of vivid, accessible and thought-provoking biography.” Norfolk Virginian-Pilot , 11/14/10 With quotes from Henry's vivid oratory, Unger traces his rise in Virginia society before the Revolution. Though not quite a rags-to-riches talehis folks were well-established lawyers and clergymen Lion of Liberty tells entertainingly of how a homespun-clad upcountryman with an odd accent fitted into a British-trained, plantation-owning aristocracy of velvet jackets and white neckcloths.” The Federal Lawyer, November/December 2010 [An] excellent biography
Will be valued by all who have an interest in the birth of this nation and the origins of government.” Asb